Research Engineering Instrument Maker IV, Steward Observatory

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 39,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance

Disability programs

Paid vacation and sick leave

Tuition reduction for employee and a+

Job summary

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory seeks a Research Engineering Instrument Maker IV to fabricate, assemble, and test components for telescope instrumentation. You will work with faculty, engineers, and students, applying mechanical skills to create reliable parts using CNC and manual equipment.

The role requires CAD/CAM proficiency, experience with G-code/M-code, and a strong eye for precision.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, including experience with CAD and CAM software and the operation of manual and CNC machines.

Responsibilities

• Fabricates components using conventional and CNC lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and similar equipment with precision.
• Develops and tests new equipment; analyzes performance and reliability.
• Fabricates jigs and fixtures; performs complex mechanical inspections with calipers, micrometers, etc.
• Generates toolpaths using CAM software and interfaces with customers for design details.
• Prepares estimates and provides cost-saving opportunities to customers.

Skills

CAD/CAM software

Manual & CNC machines operation

Education

High school diploma

Tools

HAAS CNC mill

SolidWorks

HSMWorks

Job description

Research Engineering Instrument Maker IV, Steward Observatory

Posting Number: req27299

Department: Steward Observatory

Department Website Link: https://astro.arizona.edu

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply for the role of Research Engineering Instrument Maker IV. In this role, you will work with faculty, engineers, and students to fabricate, assemble, and test components for space- and ground-based telescope instrumentation. You must be familiar with all forms of mechanical assembly techniques and methods to fabricate parts, including CNC and manual machining, grinding, drilling, tapping and other techniques used to produce functional and reliable parts. You should also possess a wealth of experience in the use of materials, including ferrous metals, non-ferrous metals, and polymers, in mechanical assemblies.

This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).

• Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Fabricates a wide variety of components through the setup and operation of conventional and CNC lathes, milling machines, drill presses, and similar equipment, carefully gauging work using precision measuring instruments.
• Develops or directs the setup of equipment and the appropriate testing of new or experimental equipment; analyzes performance and reliability.
• Fabricates jigs and fixtures as required and performs complex mechanical inspections on completed parts using calipers, micrometers, dial indicators, height gauges, and other inspection devices.
• Interfaces with customers to obtain design details and generates toolpaths using CAM software.
• Prepares estimates for projected jobs and maintains various cost records. Provides information to customers to identify opportunities for reducing project costs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of mechanical inspection techniques, including the proper use and maintenance of mechanical inspection equipment.
• Ability to read and interpret shop drawings and adapt and modify sketches and blueprints based on applicable properties and mathematical calculations.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands:

• Ability to stand up to eight hours, climb stairs and ladders, and lift and carry heavy objects up to fifty-five pounds.
• Ability to work in an environment with standard machine shop odors, fumes and noise are commonplace.
• Ability to work around materials that require the use of appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and to understand the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) specific to those materials.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, including experience with CAD and CAM software and the operation of manual and CNC machines, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with manual machines and HAAS CNC mill.
• Experience using HSMWorks and SolidWorks.
• Experience working with G-code and M-code and generating toolpaths using CAM software.
• Experience producing precision optics.

Other Information

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Research

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: $28.56 - $35.70

Compensation Type: hourly rate

Grade: 8

Compensation Guidance: The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level: OC4

Job Family: Research Engineering

Job Function: Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Target Hire Date: 10/26/2026

Contact Information for Candidates: Mario Rascon
R&D Engineering Manager III
[e-mail]

Open Date: 10/15/2026

Open Until Filled: Yes

Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].